Approximately 450 kilometres south of Peru’s capital of Lima a desolate road leads into the vast terrain of the scant, desert-like highlands. In the midst of this almost lifeless world and surrounded by sandy mountains is the small airport of Nazca. Indeed, a single aircraft once made this region famous. One day while flying here in 1939, American Paul Kosok made an amazing discovery: long drawn-out lines that extend across the ground that are the traces of a mysterious pre-Columbian culture.

These strange hundred metre lines were created by the Nazca culture and according to archaeological research date back to the sixth or seventh century B.C. Since their discovery they have created much controversy with regard to their origin, function and significance.

There are more than a hundred lines and figures within the surrounding plains and mountains. Most of the markings were revealed by the removal of the top layer of dark stones from the ground.

In recent years one of the images known as the Astronaut has captured the imagination more than any other.

The proportions and geometric precision of the different images raise numerous questions. How could the Nazca people have created these gigantic designs? Recently a further image of perfect proportions and measuring a hundred metres was also discovered.

But how were those who created these enormous images able to gain a true perspective of their work? Is it possible that a precursor of the hot-air balloon existed in those bygone times?